I really didn't mind the current repair system except for one thing. As a crafter you can let your gear go red because it didn't affect the +stats like control, craftsmanship, etc. This way people will have to repair gear.

As far as the prices are concern I have been paying 1k over dark matter and have been fine with it. I'm worried that the 1500 gil difference for grade 5 (5000-3500) is negligible and people will just use the repair which will alienate the crafters. Althought i'm not a crafter I don't want anyone left out.